Flemings Hotel

Client: Miller Homes Location: Olton, West Midlands

Unusually, CAP supported a scheme at appeal which called for for demolition & replacement of 3 pairs of houses with replicas and some new build, totalling 63 residential units in Olton Conservation Area. While the local authority's expert witness contended that the buildings could be restored, we undertook a detailed fabric analysis which revealed extensive, irreversible alteration to the facades- the main elements of special interest. Following the Public Inquiry, the Inspector agreed with us that restoration of the buildings to original appearance in situ was physically impossible. With care in the reproduction, the rebuilding option would achieve a better result in conservation terms. The appeal was upheld.